Cultural Approaches to the Education of Muslim Children in U.S. K–12 Schools

• In Event: 34.078 - Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: 34.078-10 - Culture and Islamic Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to present a theoretical framework that could help school professionals, including teachers, principals, counselors, psychologists, and administrators to serve a highly marginalized K-12 student population: Muslim students in Western settings (e.g., U.S.). We focus on the schools as mediators between the Muslim students and the wider socio-political context. In offering suggestions for the educators of Muslim youth, we discuss Muslim students’ sense of belonging, identity, and citizenship. We particularly draw from culturally responsive pedagogy, culturally-relevant teaching, multicultural education, and an anti-bias curriculum to suggest ways that schools can improve social experiences and learning outcomes for Muslim students. We position Muslim students and their experiences within the greater context of post-9/11 discourse and Islamophobia.

Authors

• Nihat Polat, Duquesne University

• Laura J. Mahalingappa, Texas State University

• Terri L. Rodriguez, College of Saint Benedict